Fosu-Mensah & McArthur React To Spurs Defeat

Speaking post-match, Timothy Fosu-Mensah and James McArthur gave their reaction to the loss, courtesy of Harry Kane’s last gasp, sucker-punch winner at Selhurst Park on Sunday afternoon.

Fosu-Mensah was asked if the dressing room felt flat after conceding so late on. The centre-back said: “Yes, definitely. We defended well today, and made it difficult for Tottenham Hotspur who have many good players, and we know they are a possession team. As defenders and as a team, we need full concentration. It’s a pity to concede so late in the game.”

Speaking about Palace’s game-plan, midfielder James McArthur said: “We tried to [squeeze the centre] and force them down the sides – that was the game plan from the manager and I think it worked, but it was a set-piece that cost us.

“It was working well. Obviously they were causing us problems at times because they’ve got top quality players throughout the side, and they’re going to do that. But we limited their chances and made it hard for them, but unfortunately we couldn’t hold on.”

Looking ahead to a tricky few weeks ahead with matches against Manchester United and Chelsea, McArthur feels there is room for optimism following today’s performance: “It shows we can compete with the big boys. We’ve got a lot of injuries, but hopefully we’ll get some back and that will make us stronger again.”

Fosu-Mensah will miss Palace’s next game versus his parent club Manchester United at Selhurst Park a week Monday, but echoes McArthur’s determination, adding: “They are very good teams, but we have to perform. We have to keep our concentration and take it game by game. We want to win every game, it’s as simple as that.”

For extensive post-match reaction, head to Palace TV on eagles.cpfc.co.uk or in the app.